Ex-Viking Michael Bennett draws 15 month sentence for fraud

Then-Vikings running back Michael Bennett carries the ball against the St. Louis Rams on December 11, 2005 at the Metrodome. (Elsa/Getty Images).

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Former Minnesota Vikings first-round draft pick Michael Bennett has received a 15-month federal sentence for taking part in a Florida fraud scheme.

Bennett received the sentence Friday, Oct. 26, in a Fort Lauderdale federal court. He pleaded guilty three months ago to wire fraud.

The 34-year-old Bennett was drafted by the Vikings in 2002 and played for six teams, last appearing for the Oakland Raiders in 2010.

Prosecutors say the FBI operated an undercover check-cashing store in North Miami used by Bennett, two other former football players and five others from February through April. The group allegedly cashed about $500,000 in fraudulent tax refund checks.

Former Raiders and New York Giants defensive tackle William Joseph and former Syracuse player Louis Gacheline also have pleaded guilty to related charges and are awaiting sentencing.